Memory device which generates operation voltages in parallel with reception of an address

ABSTRACT

A method of controlling a memory device includes receiving an address indicating a region in a memory cell array and generating one or more voltages supplied to the memory cell array in parallel with receiving the address.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation Application of U.S. application Ser.No. 16/567,982, filed on Sep. 11, 2019, which is based upon and claimsthe benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No.2018-241544, filed Dec. 25, 2018, the entire contents all of which areincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

Embodiments described herein relate generally to a memory device.

BACKGROUND

In memory devices, such as NAND flash memories, improvement inproperties is promoted. Such improvement in properties includes, forexample, increase in speed of operation and increase in reliability.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a memory system accordingto an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a memorydevice according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the memorydevice according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the memorydevice according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the memorydevice according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the memorydevice according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 7, FIG. 8, FIG. 9, FIG. 10, FIG. 11, FIG. 12, FIG. 13, FIG. 14, andFIG. 15 are diagrams illustrating an operation example of the memorydevice according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 are diagrams illustrating a configuration example ofa memory device according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an operation example of the memorydevice according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a memorydevice according to a third embodiment; and

FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 are diagrams illustrating an operation example ofthe memory device according to the third embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Memory devices according to embodiments will be described hereinafterwith reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 21. The present embodiments will bedescribed in detail hereinafter with reference to drawings. In thefollowing explanation, constituent elements having the same functionsand structures will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the following embodiments, when it is unnecessary to mutuallydistinguish constituent elements with reference numerals (such as wordlines WL and/or bit lines BL, and various voltages and/or signals)provided with numbers/alphabets at the end for distinction, description(reference numerals) are used with the numbers/alphabets at the endomitted.

In general, according to one embodiment, a memory device includes:memory cell array; a voltage generation circuit generating one or morevoltages supplied to the memory cell array; an input/output circuitreceiving an address indicating a region in the memory cell array; and acontrol circuit controlling operations of the memory cell array. Thevoltage generation circuit generates the voltages during reception ofthe address.

(1) First Embodiment

The following is an explanation of a memory device, a memory system, anda method for controlling the memory device (or the memory system) withreference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 15.

(a) Configuration Example

The following is an explanation of a memory device and a memory systemaccording to the first embodiment with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 7.

(a1) Memory System

The following is an explanation of a system including a memory deviceaccording to the present embodiment with reference to FIG. 1.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system including a memory deviceaccording to the embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, a system (for example, a memory system) 900includes a host device 9, a controller 8, and a memory device 1.

The host device 9 is electrically connected to the controller 8 throughwireless communication or wired communication. In this manner, the hostdevice 9 is enabled to communicate with the controller 8. The hostdevice 9 requests the controller 8 to perform various operations, suchas write/erase of data to/from the memory device 1, and read of datafrom the memory device 1.

The controller 8 generates and issues a command CMD on the basis of arequest from the host device 9. In reading of data, the controller 8transmits a read command CMD and an address (hereinafter referred to as“select address”) ADD of an operation target to the memory device 1through an interconnect IO. In writing of data, the controller 8transmits a write command CMD, an address ADD of an operation target,and data DT to be written to the memory device 1 as a signal IO. Thecontroller 8 transmits various control signals CNT to the memory device1.

The memory device 1 according to the present embodiment is electricallyconnected to the controller 8 through an interconnect and a terminal(pad, connector, or pin).

The memory device 1 according to the present embodiment is, for example,a NAND flash memory.

For example, the NAND flash memory 1 includes a plurality of chips 20.Each of the chips 20 includes a plurality of memory cells (notillustrated). Each of the memory cells stores data in a substantiallynon-volatile manner.

For example, the NAND flash memory 1 and the controller 8 form a storagedevice 80. Examples of the storage device 80 include a SSD (solid statedrive), a memory card, or a USB memory.

(a2) Flash Memory

FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining an internal configuration ofthe NAND flash memory according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the NAND flash memory 1 includes a corecircuit 11 and a peripheral circuit 12. The core circuit 11 includes aplurality of planes PLN (PNL0, PLN1, . . . , PLN15). Each of the planesPLN includes a memory cell array. Each memory cell array includes aplurality of blocks. Each of the blocks includes a plurality of memorycells (not illustrated).

Each of the planes PLN performs predetermined operations on each ofblocks (not illustrated) as a unit. For example, each of the planes PLNperforms a data write operation and/or a data read operation on a partof memory cells in a block. Each of the planes PLN performs a data eraseoperation on all the memory cells in a block or part of memory cells ina block. The planes PLN0 to PLN15 are capable of operating independentlyof one another, and capable of operating simultaneously (in parallel).The planes PLN0 to PLN 15 have the same structure.

The peripheral circuit 12 includes an input/output circuit 120, a logiccontrol circuit 121, a register circuit 123, a sequencer 124, a voltagegeneration circuit 125, and a driver circuit 126.

The input/output circuit 120 transmits and receives signals IO (IO<7:0>)to and from the controller 8. The input/output circuit 120 transfers acommand CMD and an address ADD in the signals IO to the register circuit123. The input/output circuit 120 transmits and receives write data andread data (data DAT) to and from the core circuit 11.

The logic control circuit 121 receives signals /CE, CLE, ALE, /WE, /RE,and /WP from the controller 8. The logic control circuit 121 transmits asignal /RB to the controller 8. The logic control circuit 121 transmitsa signal /RB to the controller 8. With the signal /RB, the state of theNAND flash memory 1 is notified to the controller 8.

A chip enable signal /CE is a signal to enable the flash memory 1. Acommand latch enable signal CLE is a signal indicating that the signalIO is a command. An address latch enable signal ALE is a signalindicating that the signal IO is an address. A write enable signal /WEis a signal to take the received signal into the flash memory 1. A readenable signal /RE is a signal to read data from the flash memory 1 withthe controller 8. In this manner, the flash memory 1 outputs the signalIO to the controller 8 on the basis of the toggled read enable signal/RE. A write protect signal /WP instructs the NAND flash memory 10 toprevent data write and data erase.

A ready/busy signal /RB indicates whether the NAND flash memory 1 is ina ready state (state of receiving a command from outside) or a busystate (state of receiving no command from outside).

The signals IO are, for example, a set of 8-bit signals (IO<7:0>). Thesignals IO are actual substance of data transmitted and received betweenthe NAND flash memory 1 and the controller 8. The signals IO includes acommand CMD, an address ADD, and data DAT. The data DAT includes writedata and read data.

The register circuit 123 retains a command CMD and an address ADD. Theregister circuit 123 transfers, for example, the address ADD and thecommand CMD to the sequencer 124.

The sequencer 124 receives a command set including a command CMD and anaddress ADD. The sequencer 124 controls the whole NAND flash memory 1 inaccordance with the sequence based on the received command set. Forexample, the sequencer 124 is capable of causing each of the planes toexecute a data read operation, a write operation, or an erase operationby synchronizing the planes PLN in the core circuit 11 with an output ofthe control signal.

For example, the sequencer 124 includes a decode circuit 40 and atemperature sensor 41, and the like. The decode circuit 40 decodes acommand CMD and an address ADD. The temperature sensor 41 is capable ofmeasuring the temperature of the chips 20 of the NAND flash memory 1.

The voltage generation circuit 125 generates a plurality of voltagesused for a data write operation, a data read operation, and a data eraseoperation, and the like, on the basis of an instruction from thesequencer 124. The voltage generation circuit 125 supplies the generatedvoltages to the driver circuit 126.

The driver circuit 126 supplies various voltages from the voltagegeneration circuit 125 to the core circuit 11. The driver circuit 126includes a plurality of drivers 70. Each of the drivers 70 outputscorresponding one of the voltages.

(a3) Plane

The following is an explanation of a configuration example of the planesof the NAND flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment withreference to FIG. 3. The example of FIG. 3 illustrates a configurationexample of the plane PLN0. The other planes PLN have substantially thesame structure as the structure of FIG. 3.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an internal configurationof the plane of the NAND flash memory.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the plane PLN0 at least includes a memory cellarray 111, a row decoder 112, and a sense amplifier module 113.

The memory cell array 111 includes a plurality of blocks BLK (BLK0,BLK1, . . . ). The blocks BLK are mutually distinguished with, forexample, mutually distinguishable block addresses. Each of the planesPLN other than the plane PLN0 also includes blocks BLK corresponding tothe same block addresses as those of the plane PLN0. Blocks BLK providedwith the same block address between the different planes PLN aremutually distinguished with mutually distinguishable plane addresses.Each of the blocks BLK includes a plurality of memory cells (notillustrated) associated with word lines and bit lines. The block BLKserves as, for example, the data erase unit. Data in the same block BLKis erased all together.

However, data can be erased in units smaller than blocks. A method forerasing data is disclosed in, for example, U.S. patent application Ser.No. 13/235,389 “NONVOLATILE SEMICONDUCTOR MEMORY DEVICE” filed on Sep.18, 2011. Another method for erasing data is disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/694,690 “NON-VOLATILE SEMICONDUCTOR STORAGEDEVICE” filed on Jan. 27, 2010. In addition, another method for erasingdata is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/483,610“NONVOLATILE SEMICONDUCTOR MEMORY DEVICE AD DATA ERASE METHOD THEREOF”filed on May 30, 2012. The whole of these patent applications are citedby reference in the specification of the present application.

Each of the blocks BLK includes a plurality of string units SU (SU0,SU1, . . . ). Each of the string units SU includes a plurality of NANDstrings NS. The number of blocks in one memory cell array 111, thenumber of string units in one block BLK, and the number of NAND stringsNS in one string unit SU may be set to any numbers.

The row decoder 112 receives a row address of the address ADD from theregister circuit 123. The row decoder 112 selects the block BLK, thestring unit SU, and the word line (not illustrated), on the basis of therow address. The voltage from the driver circuit 126 is transferred tothe selected block BLK through the row decoder 112.

The sense amplifier module 113 receives a column address of the addressADD from the register circuit 123. The sense amplifier module 113executes an operation instructed with the sequencer 124 on the operationtarget indicated in the address ADD. When data is read, the senseamplifier module 113 senses presence/absence (or change in potential ofthe bit line) of occurrence of the current corresponding to turningon/off of the memory cells in the bit line (not illustrated). In thismanner, the sense amplifier module 113 reads data. When data is written,the sense amplifier module 113 transfers data (write data) to be writtento the memory cell through the bit data to the memory cell.

(a4) Memory Cell Array

The following is an explanation of an internal configuration of thememory cell array in the NAND flash memory according to the presentembodiment with reference to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of the memorycell array 111 in the plane PLN0. FIG. 4 illustrates a circuit diagramof a block. The other planes PLN have a memory cell array ofsubstantially the same configuration as the circuit configuration ofFIG. 4.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, each of the string units SU is a group of NANDstrings NS. Each of the NAND strings NS includes a plurality of memorycells MC, a select transistor ST1, and a select transistor ST2.

The number of memory cells MC in a NAND string NS is 8, 16, 32, 64, 96,or 128, or the like. The number of memory cells MC in a NAND string NSis not limited.

Each of the memory cells MC includes a stacked gate including a controlgate and a charge storage layer. The memory cells MC are connected inseries between the select transistors ST1 and ST2.

Select gate lines SGD0 to SGD3 are connected to respective gates ofselect transistors ST1 of the corresponding string units SU0 to SU3 in ablock BLK. Each of the select gate lines SGD is connected to one stringunit SU in a plurality of string units SU in the same block BLK.

A select gate line SGS is connected in common with gates of selecttransistors ST2 of all the string units SU in a block BLK. The selectgate line SGS is connected in common with all the string units SU in thesame block BLK. A plurality of word lines WL0 to WLm−1 are connected torespective control gates of corresponding memory cells MC0 to MCm−1 inthe same block BLK. The word line WL of the same address is connected incommon with all the string units SU in the same block BLK.

In NAND strings NS arranged in a matrix manner in the memory cell array111, terminals of the select transistors ST1 of the NAND strings NS inthe same column are connected to corresponding one of n bit lines BL(BL0 to BLn−1). Each of the bit lines BL is connected to a plurality ofNAND strings NS of the same column (same address) through a plurality ofblocks BLK.

Terminal of the select transistor ST2 is connected to a source line SL.The source line SL is connected to a plurality of NAND strings NSthrough a plurality of blocks BLK.

Read and write of data can be performed all together on a plurality ofmemory cells MC connected in common with one of word lines WL in anystring unit SU of any block BLK. A group of memory cells MC sharing aword line WL in one string unit SU as described above is called, forexample, “cell unit”. The cell unit is a group of memory cells MC onwhich a write operation or a read operation can be executed alltogether.

As described above, erase of data is performed all together on, forexample, memory cells MC in the same block BLK.

One memory cell MC is capable of storing, for example, data of one or aplurality of bits. The following explanation illustrates the case whereone memory cell MC can store one-bit data, to simplify the explanation.In the same cell unit, a set of 1-bit data stored in the respectivememory cells MC in the bits of the same place (digit) are referred to as“page”. The term “page” can be defined as part of a memory space formedin the group of memory cells MC in the same cell unit.

The following is an explanation of a cross-sectional structure of thememory cell array of the flash memory according to the presentembodiment. FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of part of thememory cell array.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a part relating to two string units SUin one block BLK. FIG. 5 illustrates respective NAND strings NS of thetwo string units SU and a peripheral part thereof.

A plurality of structures illustrated in FIG. 5 are arranged in the Xdirection. For example, a set of a plurality of NAND strings NSillustrated in FIG. 5 and arranged in the X direction correspond to astring unit SU.

The memory cell array 111 is provided on a semiconductor substrate 30.In the following explanation, a X-Y plane is a plane parallel with asurface of the semiconductor substrate 30. A Z direction is a directionperpendicular to the X-Y plane. In the present embodiment, the Xdirection and the Y direction are mutually orthogonal.

A p-type well region 30 p is provided in an upper portion (surfaceregion) of the semiconductor substrate 30. A plurality of NAND stringsNS are provided on the p-type well region 30 p.

On the p-type well region 30 p, for example, a conductive layer 31functioning as a select gate line SGS, a plurality of conductive layers32 functioning as the word lines WL0 to WLm−1, and a conductive layer 33functioning as a select gate line SGD are successively stacked from thesemiconductor substrate side. A plurality of conductive layers 31 and aplurality of conductive layers 33 may be stacked on the semiconductorsubstrate 30. Insulating layers (not illustrated) are providedrespectively between layers of the stacked conductive layers 31 to 33.As described above, a stacked structure including a plurality ofconductive layers 31 to 33 and a plurality of insulating layers isformed on the semiconductor substrate 30.

The conductive layer 31 is connected in common with gates of respectiveselect transistors ST2 of a plurality of NAND strings NS in one blockBLK. The conductive layers 32 are connected in common with control gatesof respective memory cells MC of a plurality of NAND strings NS in oneblock BLK, for respective layers (interconnection levels). Theconductive layer 33 is connected in common with gates of respectiveselect transistors ST1 of a plurality of NAND strings NS in one blockBLK.

Memory holes MH are provided to pierce the conductive layers 33, 32, and31 and reach the p-type well region 30 p. A block insulating layer 34, acharge storage layer (insulating film) 35, and a gate insulating layer(tunnel insulation layer) 36 are successively provided on side surfacesof each of the memory holes MH. A semiconductor pillar (conductivelayer) 37 is embedded into each memory hole MH. The semiconductor pillar37 is, for example, non-doped polysilicon. The semiconductor pillar 37functions as a current path of the NAND string NS (memory cells MC). Aconductive layer 38 a functioning as a bit line BL is provided above thesemiconductor pillars 37. Each of the semiconductor pillars 37 isconnected to the conductive layer 38 a through a contact plug VP.

A n+ type impurity diffusion layer 39 n and a p+ type impurity diffusionlayer 39 p are provided in the upper part (surface region of thesemiconductor substrate 30) of the p-type well region 30 p. A contactplug CPa is provided on an upper surface of the n+ type impuritydiffusion layer 39 n. A conductive layer (interconnect) 38 b functioningas a source line SL is provided on an upper surface of the contact plugCPa. A contact plug CPb is provided on an upper surface of the p+ typeimpurity diffusion layer 39 p. A conductive layer 38 c functioning as awell line CPWELL is provided on an upper surface of the contact plugCPb.

As described above, a select transistor ST2, a plurality of memory cellsMC, and a select transistor ST1 are stacked on the p-type well region 30p in order from the semiconductor substrate side. A memory hole MH (or asemiconductor pillar) corresponds to a NAND string NS.

The configuration of the memory cell array 111 (block BLK) is notlimited to the configurations of FIG. 4 and FIG. 5. A configuration of amemory cell array 111 is disclosed in, for example, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/407,403 “THREE DIMENSIONAL STACKED NONVOLATILESEMICONDUCTOR MEMORY” filed on Mar. 19, 2009. A configuration of amemory cell array 18 is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/406,524 “THREE DIMENSIONAL STACKED NONVOLATILE SEMICONDUCTOR MEMORY”filed on Mar. 18, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/679,991“NON-VOLATILE SEMICONDUCTOR STORAGE DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURINGTHE SAME” filed on Mar. 25, 2010, and U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/532,030 “SEMICONDUCTOR MEMORY AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SAME”filed on Mar. 23, 2009. The whole of these patent applications are citedby reference in the specification of the present application.

A chip including a layer (first layer) provided with the memory cellarray 111 may be formed separately from a chip including a layer (secondlayer) provided with the row decoder 112 and/or the sense amplifiermodule 113. In this case, the chip including the memory cell array 111is bonded with the chip including the row decoder 112 and/or the senseamplifier module 113, and a pair of the bonded chips is used as the NANDflash memory 1 in the embodiment described above. In the bonded-typeNAND flash memory 1, supposing that the upper side is a side providedwith the conductive layer 38 functioning as the bit line BL in theregion provided with the memory cell array 111 and the lower side is aside provided with the semiconductor substrate 30, the lower chip isprovided with the layer provided with the row decoder 112 and/or thesense amplifier module 113.

In the NAND flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment, thelayer provided with the row decoder 112 and/or the sense amplifiermodule 113 may be provided on the semiconductor substrate in the lowerside of the memory cell array 111. In this case, the memory cell array111 is provided on the layer provided with the row decoder 112 and/orthe sense amplifier module 113 in the Z direction. The memory cell array111 is disposed on an interlayer insulating film covering the layerprovided with the row decoder 112 and/or the sense amplifier module 113.

(a5) Command Set

The following is an explanation of a command set of the memory systemand the flash memory according to the present embodiment with referenceto FIG. 6 and FIG. 7.

FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration exampleof a command set.

(a) of FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a command set of aNAND flash memory.

As illustrated in (a) of FIG. 6, in a memory system including a NANDflash memory, a command set includes commands CMDa and CMDb, and anaddress ADD.

In a transfer sequence (hereinafter referred to as “command sequence”)of a command set, the command set is transmitted from the controller 8to the flash memory 1 in the order of the first command CMDa, theaddress ADD, and the second command CMDb. The commands CMD (CMDa andCMDb) and the address ADD are transmitted from the controller 8 to theflash memory 1 in the units of eight bits.

A command CMD is a signal to instruct the flash memory to perform acertain operation.

The command CMDa is transmitted from the controller 8 to the flashmemory 1 through the data line before transmission of the address ADD.The command CMDa is a command transmitted before input of an address ofthe target of a certain operation. The command CMDb is transmitted fromthe controller 8 to the flash memory 1 through the data line aftertransmission of the address ADD. The command CMDb is a command toinstruct an execution of the certain operation on the input address.

The address ADD is a signal indicating the region serving as the targetof an operation performed with the command CMD. The address ADD istransmitted from the controller 8 to the flash memory 1 through the dataline, after transmission of the command CMDa and before transmission ofthe command CMDb. The address ADD is transmitted over five cycles or sixcycles.

(b) of FIG. 6 illustrates a diagram illustrating a modification of thecommand set.

As illustrated in (b) of FIG. 6, the command set may include anadditional command. The additional command (also referred to as “prefixcommand” or “function command” hereinafter) is transmitted from thecontroller 8 to the flash memory 1 through the data line, beforetransmission of the command CMDa.

The additional command is a command to additionally announce(instruction) setting of conditions and specific processing and the likefor the operation to be executed with the subsequent command.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of address transfer cyclesin the command set.

Data of eight bits of the first cycle indicate part of the columnaddress. In data of eight bits of the second cycle, data of five bitsindicate the remaining part of the column address, and data of threebits indicate the value of “Don't Care”. In data of eight bits of thethird cycle, data of two bits indicate the address of the string unitSU, and the remaining data of six bits indicate part of the address ofthe word line WL. In data of eight bits of the fourth cycle, data of onebit indicates the remaining part of the address of the word line WL,data of four bits indicate the address of the plane PLN, and data ofthree bits indicate part of address of the block BLK. In data DT ofeight bits of the fifth cycle, data of seven bits indicate the remainingpart of the address of the block BLK.

For example, when the NAND flash memory 1 includes a plurality of memorychips, the address of the memory chip is transmitted from the controller8 to the flash memory 1 using part of the data of the fifth cycle andthe data IO of the sixth cycle. For example, in data IO of eight bits ofthe fifth cycle, the remaining one bit indicates part of the address ofthe chip. In data IO of eight bits of the sixth cycle, data of two bitsindicate the remaining part of the address of the chip. In data IO ofeight bits of the sixth cycle, data of the remaining six bits is data of“Don't Care”.

As described above, in the memory system including a NAND flash memory,a memory space in the memory cell array is selected on the basis of acommand set (command sequence), and an operation on the selected memoryspace is performed.

(b) Operation

The following is an explanation of the memory device (such as NAND flashmemory) and the memory system according to the present embodiment withreference to FIG. 8 to FIG. 15.

(b1) Basic Example

The following is an explanation of a basic example of operations(control method) of the flash memory and the memory system according tothe present embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for explaining a basic example ofoperations of the memory system and the memory device (flash memory)according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the host device 9 requests the controller 8 toperforms a certain operation on the flash memory 1 at certain time to(Step Sa).

The controller 8 sets a command corresponding to the operation and anaddress of an operation target, to deal with the request of the hostdevice 9. At time tb, the controller 8 transmits the command and theaddress to the flash memory 1 (Step Sb).

The flash memory 1 receives the command and the address at time tc (StepSc1). The flash memory 1 decodes the received command and the address.

In the present embodiment, the flash memory 1 starts and executesgeneration of voltages used for the operation of the memory cell array(memory cell), in parallel with decoding of the command and/or decodingof the address (Step Sc2). For this reason, the voltage used for theoperation to be performed is generated during the period of decoding thecommand and/or decoding the address. The interconnect between the memorycell array 111 and the driver circuit 126 and the interconnects (wordlines, bit lines, and select gate lines) in the memory cell array 111are charged during the period of decoding the command and/or decodingthe address.

After decoding the command and the address, at time td, the flash memory1 performs the operation corresponding to the command on a memory space(one or more memory cells) corresponding to the address using thegenerated voltage (Step Sd).

For example, when the operation to be performed is a write operation,the flash memory 1 writes data received together with the command andthe address to a memory space (for example, one or more page) indicatedwith the address in the memory cell array 111. For example, when theoperation to be performed is a read operation, the flash memory 1 readsdata from the memory space indicated with the address. The flash memory1 transmits the read data to the controller 8. The controller 8transmits the data to the host device 9. In addition, when the operationto be performed is an erase operation, the flash memory 1 erases data inthe memory space indicated with the address in the memory cell array111.

At time te, the flash memory 1 ends the operation to be performed (StepSe).

Ordinary flash memories start and execute generation of voltages after(for example, time tx) decoding of the command and the address. Aftergeneration of the voltage to be used for operation is completed, theoperation corresponding to the command is performed.

By contrast, the flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment iscapable of starting the operation to be performed earlier than in thecase of generating voltages after decoding of the command/address. As aresult, the flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment isenabled to shorten the period from reception of the command to start ofthe operation to be performed.

Accordingly, the memory system and the flash memory 1 according to thepresent embodiment enable increase in speed of operations.

(b2) Operation Example

The following is an explanation of an operation example of the flashmemory and the memory system according to the present embodiment withreference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of the flashmemory (and the memory system) according to the present embodiment. FIG.10 is a timing chart for explaining an operation example of the flashmemory (and the memory system) according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the flash memory 1 sets a signallevel of the ready/busy signal /RB to level “L” at a certain timing (forexample, when an operation is completed) (Step SX in FIG. 9). The flashmemory 1 is in the ready state.

The controller 8 checks the signal level of the ready/busy signal /RB.The controller 8 senses that the level of the ready/busy signal /RB isthe level “H”. On the basis of the ready/busy signal /RB with the level“H”, the controller 8 sequentially transmits the command CMDa, theaddress ADD, and the command CMDb as the signal IO to the flash memory 1on the basis of the command sequence of the NAND interface (Step S0).For example, the controller 8 transmits a command (“00h” and “30h”) fordata read to the flash memory 1 (Step S0 of FIG. 9).

At time t0, the flash memory 1 sequentially receives the command CMDa,the address ADD, and the command CMDb (Step S1). The flash memory 1starts decoding of the command CMD and the address ADD. As describedabove, the address ADD is received with the flash memory 1 in the orderof the column address and the row address. The command CMDa is a command“00h”. The command CMDb is a command “30h”. In this manner, the flashmemory 1 recognizes that the operation to be performed is a readoperation on a page (memory cells storing data of one bit).

For example, in the period from time tp to time tq (tp≤t0≤tq), the flashmemory 1 acquires a temperature (temperature of the chip of the flashmemory 1) inside the flash memory with a temperature sensor 41 (Step S10in FIG. 10).

At time t1, the flash memory 1 performs generation of voltages, duringthe ready period (during the period in which the signal level of thesignal /RB is “H”) of the flash memory, in parallel with reception (anddecoding) of the command CMD and the address ADD (Step S2 in FIG. 9).The voltage generation circuit 125 starts a charge pump 50 insynchronization with start of the toggle of the signal /WE. In thismanner, generation of voltages used for the operation (such as a readoperation) corresponding to the command is started (Step S11 in FIG.10). With start of the charge pump 50, the current value of the currentIc of the flash memory 1 increases to approximately a certain value i1.For example, the current value i1 is a peak value of the current Ic inthe operation corresponding to the command set.

At time t2, the sequencer 124 sets various operation parameters (such asthe voltage value) of the operation to be performed (Step S12 in FIG.10).

At time t3, the decode circuit 40 of the sequencer 124 starts decodingof the row address, in parallel with generation of the voltage andsetting of parameters. In this manner, decoding (Step S13 a of FIG. 10)of the word line address and decoding (Step S13 b in FIG. 10) of theblock address are performed. At time t4, the sense amplifier module 113controls activation of the bit lines BL (Step S14 of FIG. 10), inparallel with decoding of the row address.

At time t5, decoding of the word line address and the block address iscompleted. In this manner, the sequencer 124 controls activation of theselected block, the selected string unit, and the selected word line, onthe basis of the decoding result of the row address (Step S15 in FIG.10). For example, the address information (hereinafter referred to as“word line address information”) of the word line based on the decodingresult is transferred from the sequencer 124 to each of the planes PLNby parallel transfer (for example, parallel transfer in eight bits). Theword line address information may be transferred from the sequencer 124to each of the planes PLN by serial transfer.

In this manner, the flash memory 1 applies the generated voltage to theword line in the ready period (Step S3 in FIG. 9). For example, at thetiming of applying the voltage to the word line and the bit line, thecurrent value of the current Ic has a certain value i2. The currentvalue i2 is lower than the current value i1.

At time t6, reception of the command set (command CMDb) is completed.

For example, the command CMDb is decoded in parallel with activation ofthe selected word line WL.

After the period tWB has passed from reception of the command set, attime t7, the sequencer 124 changes the signal level of the ready/busysignal /RB from “H” to “L” (Step S4 in FIG. 9). In this manner, theflash memory 1 is set to the busy state. The flash memory 1 performs aread operation on the memory space (such as a page) corresponding to theaddress to deal with the command “0Xh” and the command “30h” (Step S16in FIG. 10). For example, in the busy period, the current value of thecurrent Ic has a value i3 at the timing of sensing (occurrence of acurrent) a current of the bit line. The current value i3 is equal to orlower than the current value i2.

At time t8, the NAND flash memory 1 inactivates the bit line BL and theword line WL. In this manner, the read operation of the flash memory 1is ended.

The flash memory 1 transmits the read data to the controller 8 (Step S5in FIG. 9).

Thereafter, at time t9, the sequencer 124 changes the signal level ofthe ready/busy signal /RB from level “L” to level “H”. The flash memory1 is set to the ready state. The controller 8 receives the read datafrom the flash memory 1 (Step S6 in FIG. 9).

As described above, in the present embodiment, the NAND flash memory 1operates the voltage generation circuit 125 during the period (and thedecoding period) of receiving the command and the address.

In the flash memory according to the present embodiment, generationand/or application of the voltage is started during the setup operationof the row address (for example, the word line).

In this manner, the flash memory 1 according to the present embodimentgenerates voltages (for example, a read voltage and a non-selectedvoltage) used for the operation corresponding to the command, during theperiod T1.

As a result, the flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment isenabled to shorten the period from reception of the command set toreading of data from the memory cell array.

(b1) Specific Example and Modification

The following is an explanation of a specific example and a modificationof the operations of the NAND flash memory according to the presentembodiment described above.

<Determination of Chip>

The following is an explanation of a specific example/modification ofoperations of the flash memory according to the present embodiment withreference to FIG. 11.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the flash memoryaccording to the present embodiment.

(a) of FIG. 11 illustrates a command set in a specific example of theflash memory according to the present embodiment.

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7 described above, three bits ofdata “Don't care” exist in the data of the second cycle.

For this reason, as illustrated in (a) of FIG. 11, the chip addressCHPADD can be included in data ADD2 of the second cycle of the addressADD.

As described above, in the case where the flash memory 1 includes aplurality of memory chips 20, the chip address CHPADD is notified to theflash memory 1 at the earlier stage than in the case where the chipaddress is transmitted in the cycle (such as data of the fifth cycle orthe sixth cycle) after the second cycle.

The flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment is capable ofrecognizing the chip address CHPADD of the operation target at arelatively early stage of the command sequence. This structure enablesthe flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment to determinatethe memory chip serving as the operation target, and set the memorychips other than the operation target to a non-selected state.

As a result, the flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment iscapable of suppressing occurrence of a current (electric power) in thememory chips other than the operation target.

(b) of FIG. 11 illustrates an example different from the command set of(a) of FIG. 11.

As illustrated in (b) of FIG. 11, a code (for example, a identificationnumber or a chip address) CHPCD indicating the memory chip serving asthe operation target in the memory chips 20 may be notified from thecontroller 8 to the flash memory 1 by transmission of an additionalcommand (prefix command) CMDx.

The prefix command CMDx is issued with the controller 8. The controller8 transmits the issued prefix command CMDx to the NAND flash memory 1 ata timing (time) before the command CMDa.

By transmission and reception of the command set in the example of (b)of FIG. 11, the flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment isenabled to recognize which of the memory chips 20 serves as theoperation target, before reception and decoding of the address ADD.

This structure enables the flash memory 1 to suppress occurrence of acurrent in the memory chips other than the memory chip serving as theoperation target, in the memory system using the command set of theexample in (b) of FIG. 11.

As described above, the flash memory 1 according to the presentembodiment enables shortening (and reduction) of the period in which acurrent occurs in a plurality of non-selected memory chips. Thisstructure enables the flash memory 1 according to the present embodimentto reduce the current occurring during preparation (such as during setupof the address) of the operation.

This structure consequently reduces power consumption in the flashmemory 1 according to the present embodiment.

<Temperature Measurement>

The following is an explanation of a specific example/modification ofoperations of the flash memory according to the present embodiment withreference to FIG. 12.

The flash memory according to the present embodiment determinesparameters (setting conditions) of the operation corresponding to thereceived command set using a measurement value (hereinafter referred toas “temperature code”) of the temperature acquired during the period(the ready period) of receiving a certain command set, or a measurementvalue of the temperature acquired during the operation (the busy period)corresponding to the previous command set before the certain commandset.

Various voltages to perform the operation corresponding to the commandare set on the basis of the temperature code. In this manner, thevoltage value of the voltage used for the operation can be corrected inaccordance with the temperature of the memory chip.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a specific example/modification of theflash memory according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 12 schematically illustrates a timing chart in a specificexample/modification of the flash memory according to the presentembodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, the command CMDa, the address ADD, and thecommand CMDb are sequentially transferred from the controller 8 to theflash memory 1. During the period of transferring the command set SET0including the commands CMD (CMDa, CMDb) and the address ADD, the signal/RB is set to level “H”. The flash memory is in the ready state.

During the period in which the flash memory 1 is in the ready state, thetemperature sensor 41 measures the temperature of the memory chip 20, ineach of the memory chips 20 of the flash memory 1. In this manner, thevalues TMPSOUT indicating the temperatures of the respective memorychips 20 are acquired. The temperature codes TEMPCODE are set on thebasis of the acquired values.

Operation parameters (such as the voltage value) are selected on thebasis of the temperature code TEMPCODE corresponding to the temperaturevalue READYTMPS−1 in the ready state.

After decoding the command CMD and the address ADD, the flash memory 1starts a read operation corresponding to the command set SET0. Thesequencer 124 changes the signal level of the ready/busy signal /RB fromlevel “H” to level “L”. The flash memory 1 is changed to the busy state.The operation parameters set on the basis of the temperature codeTEMPCODE corresponding to the value READYTMPS−1 are reflected on variousvoltages used for the read operation. In this manner, the read operationis performed.

During the busy state (the period in which the level of the signal /RBis level “L”), the temperature of each of the memory chips in operationmay be measured. In this case, the temperature code TEMPCODE to be usedfor the operation of the command set SET1 received next can be set, onthe basis of the temperature values BUSYTMPS−1 during the busy state(during the operation corresponding to the command set SET0).

When the temperature is measured during the ready period and the busyperiod, measurement of the temperature and setting of the temperaturecode may be performed by periodical patrol with a timer provided insidethe flash memory. As another example, a plurality of select optionsrelating to the timing of temperature measurement may be set in theflash memory 1 such that the temperature codes are acquired at the startof the busy period in accordance with the operation mode of the flashmemory (and the memory system) and operation parameters based on thetemperature codes are reflected on the operation to be performed.

As described above, the flash memory 1 according to the presentembodiment is capable of suppressing prolonged operation due to settingof the temperature code and the operation parameters by acquiringtemperature values of the chips in the ready state and/or the busystate.

<Address Transfer>

The following is an explanation of a specific example/modification ofoperations of the flash memory according to the present embodiment withreference to FIG. 13.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a specific example/modification ofoperations of the flash memory according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 13 illustrates a timing chart of operations of the flash memory ina specific example/modification of the flash memory according to thepresent embodiment.

As described above, in a period TA in the ready period, the address ADDis transferred as data of five cycles (or six cycles) from thecontroller 8 to the flash memory 1.

In data of the first cycle and the second cycle of the address ADD, theflash memory 1 receives column addresses CA1 and CA2. The flash memory 1decodes the received column addresses CA1 and CA2.

In data of the third cycle, the fourth cycle, the fifth cycle, and thesixth cycle of the address, the flash memory 1 receives row addressesRA1, RA2, RA3, and RA4. The flash memory 1 decodes the received rowaddresses RA1, RA2, RA3, and RA4. For example, data RA2 of the fourthcycle includes a plane address PLNADD. For example, data RA3 of thefifth address includes a block address BLKADD.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, in this example, the flash memory 1 accordingto the present embodiment activates a signal PLNen in synchronizationwith the timing of reception of the plane address (data of the fourthcycle) PLNADD in the address ADD. At time t21, the sequencer 124 setsthe signal (hereinafter also referred to as “plane enable signal”) to anenable state.

In this manner, in the ready period, the plane corresponding to theaddress PLNADD can be set to the enable state on the basis of the timingof acquisition (reception and/or decoding) of the plane address PLNADD.

The flash memory 1 of the present embodiment activates a control signalBLKLATen in synchronization with the timing of acquisition of the blockaddress (data of the fifth cycle) BLKADD in the address ADD. At time t22in the ready period, the sequencer 124 changes the signal level of thecontrol signal BLKLATen from level “L” to level “H”.

This operation enables transfer of the decode result of the blockaddress BLKADD from the sequencer 124 to the plane PLN during the readyperiod. The latch circuit (address latch) in the plane PLN can be set toa state of being capable of storing the transferred block addressBLKADD.

The command CMDa of “30h” is transferred from the controller 8 to theflash memory 1. The flash memory 1 of the present embodiment activates asignal RDEC in synchronization with the timing of acquisition (receptionand/or decoding) of the command CMDa. At time t24 in the ready period,the sequencer 124 changes the signal level of the signal RDEC from level“L” to level “H”.

With the signal RDEC of the level “H”, the row decoder 112 is activatedduring the ready period of the flash memory 1. The row decoder 112 ischanged to a state of being capable of starting an operation.

As described above, the flash memory 1 according to the presentembodiment is capable of activating the row decoder 112 in the readyperiod TRY by controlling an internal control signal in synchronizationwith acquisition (reception and/or decoding) of the row address.

<Internal Operation of Memory Cell Array>

The following is an explanation of a specific example of operations ofthe memory device according to the present embodiment, with reference toFIG. 14 and FIG. 15.

FIG. 14 is a timing chart for explaining a specific example ofoperations of the core circuit (plane) in the memory device according tothe present embodiment.

As described below, voltages may be applied to the word lines, the bitlines, and the select gate lines in the memory cell array.

[Time t30]

As illustrated in FIG. 14, the flash memory 1 sequentially receives theprefix command CMDx, the command CMDa, the address ADD, and the commandCMDb.

At time t30, the sequencer 124 changes the signal level of the signal PBfrom “L” level to “H” level on the basis of the received prefix commandCMDx. In this manner, one or more planes PLN is activated. The signal PBis a control signal for the planes PLN. For example, the signal PBcorresponds to the plane enable signal PLNen described above. The signalPB may be a signal set including the plane enable signal PLNen.

The sequencer 124 changes the signal level of the control signal PUMPfor the charge pump 50 from “L” level to “H” level. In this manner, thecharge pump 50 of the voltage generation circuit 125 generates voltagesused for the operation corresponding to the command.

Thereafter, the flash memory 1 successively receives and decodes theaddress ADD.

[Time t31]

At time t31, the flash memory 1 receives data of the fifth cycle of theaddress ADD. The data of the fifth cycle includes a block address.

The address of the plane is determined with the data of the fourthcycle. For this reason, the sequencer 124 changes the signal level ofthe signal PB from “H” level to “L” level. In this manner, non-selectedplanes are set to the non-selected state.

[Time t32]

After receiving data of the fifth cycle of the address ADD, the flashmemory 1 receives the command CMDb of “30h”.

At time t32, the row decoder 112 in the selected plane activates theselected select gate lines SGD and SGS, the selected word line WL-s andnon-selected word lines WL-u on the basis of the address.

The sense amplifier module 113 in the selected plane changes thepotential (signal level) of the control signal BLC from a voltage valueVss to a voltage value VBLC. A clamp transistor of the sense amplifiermodule 113 is set to the on state. In this manner, the bit lines BL areactivated.

A voltage VSRC is applied to the source line SL.

In a read operation, the row decoder 112 transfers a voltage VSG to theselected select gate lines SGD and SGS. By application of the voltageVSG, the select transistors ST1 and ST2 are set to the on state. In aread operation, the row decoder 112 transfers a non-selection voltageVREAD to the selected word line WL-s and non-selected word lines WL-u.In this manner, the non-selection voltage VREAD is applied to the wordlines WL-s and WL-u. With the non-selection voltage VREAD, the memorycells MC are set to the on state without depending on the data retainingstate.

At time t32, the non-selection voltage may be applied to the word linesWL-s and WL-u, after a voltage VX lower than the non-selection voltageVREAD is applied.

[Time t33]

At time t33, the sequencer 124 changes the signal level of theready/busy signal /RB from “H” level to “L” level. In this manner, theflash memory 1 is set to the busy state.

After the potential of the selected word line WL-s is changed from thevoltage VREAD to a ground voltage Vss, the row decoder 112 transfers aread voltage VCGRV to the selected word line WL-s. In this manner, theread voltage VCGRV is applied to the selected word line WL-s. Forexample, the read voltage VCGRV may be a voltage including two or moreread levels.

Each of the selected cells connected to the selected word line WL-s isset to the on state, or maintains the off state, in accordance with thedata (threshold voltage of the selected cell) in the selected cell. Whenthe selected cell is in the on state, a current occurs in thecorresponding bit line (or the potential of the bit line is changed).When the selected cell is in the off state, no current occurs in thecorresponding bit line (or the potential of the bit line is notsubstantially changed).

The sense amplifier module 113 senses presence/absence (or change inpotential of the bit line) of occurrence of a current in each of the bitlines BL. The data stored in the corresponding selected cell isdiscriminated in accordance with the sense result.

As described above, data is read from the selected address in the flashmemory 1 according to the present embodiment.

The data is transferred from the flash memory to the controller 8.

In this manner, a read operation of the flash memory according to thepresent embodiment is completed.

FIG. 15 is a timing chart for explaining an example different from theexample of FIG. 14, in the read operation of the flash memory accordingto the present embodiment.

As described above, the selected address is determined in the flashmemory 1 in the order of the word line address, the block address, theplane address, and the chip address. In the example of FIG. 14, at thepoint in time when the address value of the selected word line isdetermined, a plurality of word lines corresponding to the address valueof the determined word line address are activated in a plurality ofplanes, a plurality of blocks, and a plurality of chips, regardless ofthe address of the plane PLN.

[Time t40]

As illustrated in FIG. 15, at time t40, the signal level of the signalPB and the signal level of the signal PUMP are set to “H” level inresponse to reception of the command CMDx.

In this example, before the row address is determined, the non-selectionvoltage VREAD is applied to a plurality of word lines WL-s and WL-u of aplurality of planes PLN and a plurality of chips 20 of the flash memory1. The voltage VSG is applied to a plurality of select gate lines SGDand SGS of a plurality of planes PLN and a plurality of chips 20.

The potential of the signal BLC is set to a voltage VBLC (>Vss). Thepotential of the source line SL is set to VSRC (>Vss).

[Time t41]

After the address of the plane PLN serving as the operation target isdetermined by reception of data of the fourth cycle of the address ADD,at time t41, the sequencer 124 changes the potential of the word lineWL-u in each of the non-selected planes PLN from the voltage VREAD tothe ground voltage Vss, on the basis of the plane address. The sequencer124 changes the potentials of the select gate lines SGD and SGS in eachof the non-selected planes from the voltage VSG to the ground voltageVss.

The sequencer 124 changes the potential of the signal BLC of each of thenon-selected planes from the voltage VBLC to the ground voltage Vss. Thesequencer 124 changes the potential of the source line SL in each of thenon-selected planes from the voltage VSRC to the ground voltage Vss.

As described above, when the plane address is acquired, the groundvoltage Vss is applied to the word line WL, the select gate lines SGDand SGS and the source line SL in each of the non-selected planes. Inthe non-selected planes, the signal level of the signal BLC is set tothe ground voltage Vss.

In one or more planes having the same value as the value of thedetermined plane address, applying the voltage VREAD to the word lineWL-u, applying the voltage VSG to the select gate lines SGD and SGS, andapplying the voltage VSL to the source line CELSRC are continued. Thepotential of the signal BLC is maintained at the voltage VBLC.

[Time t42]

At time t42, the sequencer 124 changes the signal level of the signal PBfrom “H” level to “L” level.

At time t42, supply of the voltage to the interconnects of thenon-selected blocks may be stopped on the basis of data of the fifthcycle of the address ADD including the received block address.

[Time t43]

After reception of data of the fifth cycle of the address ADD includingthe block address, at time t43, the flash memory 1 receives data of thesixth cycle of the address ADD. The data of the sixth cycle includes achip address.

In this manner, after the address of the chip serving as the operationtarget is determined, the sequencer 124 changes the potential of theword line WL-u of each of the non-selected chips from the voltage VREADto the ground voltage Vss, on the basis of the chip address. Thesequencer 124 changes the potentials of the select gate lines SGD andSGS of each of the non-selected chips from the voltage VSG to the groundvoltage Vss. The sequencer 124 changes the potential of the signal BLCof each of the non-selected chips from the voltage VBLC to the groundvoltage Vss. The sequencer 124 changes the potential of the source lineSL of each of the non-selected chips from the voltage VSRC to the groundvoltage Vss.

As described above, when the chip address is determined, the groundvoltage Vss is applied to the word line WL, the select gate lines SGDand SGS, and the source line SL, in each of the non-selected chips. Ineach of the non-selected chips, the signal level of the signal BLC isset to the ground voltage Vss.

In the chip (selected chip) corresponding to the determined chipaddress, applying the voltage VREAD to the word line WL-u, applying thevoltage VSG to the select gate lines SGD and SGS, and applying thevoltage VSL to the source line CELSRC are continued. The potential ofthe signal BLC is maintained at the voltage VBLC.

As a result, the voltages VREAD, VSG, and VSL for the read operation areapplied to the interconnects WL-s, WL-u, SGD, SGS, and SL, respectively,corresponding to the selected plane in the selected chip. The potentialof the signal BLC is maintained at the voltage VBLC. [Time t44]

After reception of the address ADD, at time t44, the flash memory 1receives the command CMDb. The flash memory 1 decodes the command CMDb.The operation to be performed is determined on the basis of the decodingresult of the command.

In this example, in substantially the same manner as the example of FIG.14, after the ready/busy signal /RB is set to level “L” (time t45), theread operation is performed on the basis of the decoding result of thecommand “30h”. The read voltage VCGRV is applied to the selected wordline WL-s. In this manner, data is read.

By contrast, on the basis of the decoding result of the command, when itis determined that the operation to be performed is an operation otherthan the read operation, the potentials of the interconnects WL-s, WL-u,SGD, SGS, and SL are changed from the voltage VREAD to the groundvoltage Vss. Thereafter, various voltages used for the operationcorresponding to the decoding result of the command are applied to theword line, the select gate lines, and the source line SL. In thismanner, the operation corresponding to the decoding result of thecommand is performed.

As described above, the operation corresponding to the example of FIG.15 is ended.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, in the flash memory according to the presentembodiment, a voltage may be speculatively supplied to a plurality ofplanes (memory cell array) before the selected address is determined, toincrease the speed of the operation (such as a read operation) of theflash memory.

As illustrated in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, in the flash memory according tothe present embodiment, the voltage used for the operation is suppliedinto the memory cell array (blocks) before the address is determined.

This structure enables the NAND flash memory according to the presentembodiment to increase the speed of the operation.

(c) Conclusion

In the memory device (such as a NAND flash memory) according to thepresent embodiment, the voltage used for the operation corresponding tothe command is generated in parallel with reception (and decoding) ofthe command and the address. For example, the memory device according tothe present embodiment is capable of speculatively applying thegenerated voltage to the interconnects in the memory cell array inparallel with reception (and decoding) of the command and the address.

The memory device according to the present embodiment enables earlyexecution of the operation to be performed in comparison with the casewhere generation of the voltage is started after decoding of the addressand the command is completed.

This structure enables the memory device according to the presentembodiment to shorten the period from reception of the command set tostart of the operation corresponding to the command.

As a result, the memory device according to the present embodimentenables improvement in operation speed. Accordingly, the memory deviceaccording to the present embodiment improves property.

(2) Second Embodiment

The following is an explanation of a memory device and a method forcontrolling the same according to the second embodiment with referenceto FIG. 16 to FIG. 18.

(a) Configuration Example

The following is an explanation of a configuration example of the memorydevice according to the present embodiment with reference to FIG. 16 andFIG. 17.

FIG. 16 is a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration example of thememory device (such as a NAND flash memory) according to the presentembodiment.

A NAND flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment generatesvoltages used for the operation to be performed, in parallel withreception and decoding of the address, in the same manner as the flashmemory according to the first embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 16, an input/output circuit 120 successivelytransfers the word line address (page address) and the block addressfrom the controller 8 to the sequencer 124.

The sequencer 124 starts a voltage generation circuit 125 using acontrol signal FIVEONV.

The voltage generation circuit 125 includes a plurality of charge pumps50 and a transfer circuit 55.

The charge pumps 50 operate on the basis of the control signal FIVEONV.The charge pumps 50 generate a plurality of voltages. For example, thecharge pumps 50 generate a voltage (voltage value) VUSEL. The chargepumps 50 supply the voltage VUSEL to the transfer circuit 51.

The transfer circuit 51 includes a transfer transistor (transfer gate,switch) TR. The transfer circuit 51 transfers the voltage VUSEL to therow decoder 112 through the transfer transistor TR. The transfertransistor TR supplies the voltage VUSEL to an interconnect CGN. Theinterconnect CGN is connected to an interconnect CGI in the row decoder112 through a transfer transistor SW.

Turning on/off of the transfer transistor TR is controlled with acontrol signal GUSEL. Turning on/off of the transfer transistor SW iscontrolled with a control signal CGSW.

A driver circuit 126 includes a plurality of drivers 701 and 702.

The driver 701 operates on the basis of a control signal FIVEONV. Thedriver 701 generates a voltage (voltage value) VRD using a voltage VDDor a voltage VX2. The driver 701 transfers the voltage VRD to the rowdecoder 112.

The driver 702 receives a voltage VPGMH, a voltage VGBST, and thevoltage VRD. The driver 702 outputs a voltage selected from the voltageVPGMH, the voltage VGBST, and the voltage VRD to the row decoder 112, asa voltage VRDEC.

The row decoder 112 includes a decode circuit 60 and a transfer circuit(switch circuit) 61.

The decode circuit 60 includes a level shifter 601. The level shifter601 receives the voltage VRDEC and the voltage VRD. The level shifter601 controls the signal level of a signal BLKSEL in accordance with thevoltage VRDEC and the voltage VRD.

The transfer circuit 61 supplies the voltage corresponding to theoperation to the word lines WL set to the selected state/non-selectedstate on the basis of the address. The transfer circuit 61 includes aplurality of transfer transistors (transfer gates) TG to correspond tothe respective word lines.

Each of the transfer transistors TG transfers the voltage (such as thevoltage VUSEL) supplied to the interconnect CGI to the word line WL.Each of the transfer transistors TG is turned on/off in accordance withthe signal (selection signal or control signal) BLKSEL supplied to thegate of the transfer transistor TG.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configurationof the row decoder in the flash memory according to the presentembodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 17, the row decoder 112 includes the levelshifter 601, the transfer circuit 61, and a block address decode circuit609.

The block address decode circuit 609 includes a plurality of buffers BF1and BF2 and an AND gate A1.

The AND gate A1 includes a plurality of input terminals. A plurality ofsignals AROW (AROWa, AROWb, . . . , AROWx) are supplied to the AND gateA1 through the buffers BF1. One signal AROW is supplied to correspondingone input terminal of the input terminals of the AND gate A1. The signalRDEC is supplied to corresponding one input terminal of the AND gate A1.The AND gate A1 executes an AND operation (logical product operation)using the supplied signals AROW and RDEC. The AND gate A1 outputs aresult of the AND operation as a signal RDECz.

The signals AROW are supplied to the level shifter 601 through one ormore buffers BF1. The signal RDECz is supplied to the level shifter 601through one or more buffers BF2.

The level shifter 601 includes an AND gate A2, one or more inverters IV,and transistors TRa, TRb, TRc, and TRd.

The AND gate A2 includes a plurality of input terminals. One signal AROWis supplied to corresponding one input terminal of the input terminalsof the AND gate A2 through one or more buffers BF1. The signal RDECz issupplied to corresponding one input terminal of the input terminals ofthe AND gate A2 through one or more buffers BF2.

An output terminal of the AND gate A2 is connected to a node ND1 throughone inverter IV.

The AND gate A2 performs an AND operation of the supplied signals AROWand RDECz. The AND gate A2 outputs an output signal serving as a resultof the AND operation to the node ND1 through the inverter IV.

One terminal (one of source/drain) of the transistor TRa is connected tothe node ND1 through one inverter IV. The other terminal (the other ofsource/drain) of the transistor TRa is connected to one terminal of thetransistor TRb. A gate of the transistor TRa is connected to a node ND2.A voltage VDDX is applied to the node ND2. The voltage VDDX is, forexample, equal to the voltage VRD (for example, 2 V to 3 V).

The other terminal of the transistor TRb is connected to a node ND3. Agate of the transistor TRb is connected to the node ND2. The transistorTRb is a high-voltage transistor. The withstand voltage of thetransistor TRb is higher than the withstand voltage of the transistorTRa.

One terminal of the transistor TRc is connected to the node ND3. Theother terminal of the transistor TRc is connected to one terminal of thetransistor TRd. A gate of the transistor TRc is connected to the nodeND1.

The other terminal of the transistor TRd is connected to a node ND4. Agate of the transistor TRd is connected to the node ND3. The voltageVRDEC is applied to the node ND4.

The node ND3 is an output node of the signal BLKSEL. The potential ofthe node ND3 corresponds to the signal level of the signal BLKSEL.

The transfer circuit 61 includes a plurality of transistors TG (TGD,TG0, TGm−1, TGS).

Gates of the transistors TGD, TG0, TGm−1, and TGS are connected to thenode ND2.

One terminal of the transistor TGD is connected to the select gate lineSGD. The other terminal of the transistor TGD is connected tocorresponding one of the interconnects CGI.

The transistors TG0, . . . , TGm−1 are connected to the correspondingword lines. One terminal of the transistor TG0 is connected to thecorresponding word line WL0 among the word lines. The other terminal ofthe transistor TG0 is connected to corresponding one of theinterconnects CGI. One terminal of the transistor TGm−1 is connected tothe corresponding word line WLm−1 among the word lines. The otherterminal of the transistor TGm−1 is connected to corresponding one ofthe interconnects CGI.

One terminal of the transistor TGS is connected to the select gate lineSGS. The other terminal of the transistor TGS is connected tocorresponding one of the interconnects CGI.

The transistors TG are set to the on state or the off state, inaccordance with the potential (signal level of the signal BLKSEL) of thenode ND2. In this manner, the block BLK is set to the selected state orthe non-selected state.

In the NAND flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment, thesignal BLKSEL to set the block BLK to the activated state (selectedstate) is activated, with the signal RDEC and the signal AROWcorresponding to the row address (block address) serving as a trigger.

In this case, the wait time until the signal BLKSEL is determined isself-aligned with respect to the time until the signal level of the rowaddress converges.

For this reason, the NAND flash memory according to the presentembodiment is capable of activating the signal BLKSEL in the period inwhich the level of the ready/busy signal /RB is level “H”.

This structure enables the NAND flash memory according to the presentembodiment to increase the speed of the operation.

(b) Operation Example

The following is an explanation of an operation example of the NANDflash memory according to the present embodiment with reference to FIG.18.

FIG. 18 is a timing chart illustrating an operation example of the NANDflash memory according to the present embodiment.

[Time t90]

As described above, the controller 8 transmits a command set including acommand and an address to the flash memory 1, in response to a requestfrom the host device 9. With transmission of the command set, the signal/WE is toggled.

As illustrated in FIG. 18, at time t90, the flash memory 1 receives acommand CMDa in synchronization with the toggled signal /WE.

The sequencer 124 activates the signal FIVEONV in synchronization ofreception of the command CMDa. The signal level of the signal FIVEONV ischanged from “L” level to “H” level. With the signal FIVEONV of “H”level, the voltage generation circuit 125 starts the charge pumps 50 toboost the voltage.

Before reception of the command, the driver 702 outputs the voltageVRDEC with the voltage value VDD.

With the signal FIVEONV of level “H”, the charge pumps 50 output avoltage of the voltage value VRD. The driver 701 outputs a voltage VRDof a certain voltage value. In response to it, the driver 702 outputsthe voltage VRDEC of the voltage value VRD.

For this reason, at time t90, the value of the voltage VRDEC is changedfrom the voltage value VDD to the voltage value VRD. For example, byapplication of the voltage of the voltage value VRD to the node ND2, theinverters and the transistors TRa and TRb are set to the on state.

When the command is received, no address ADD has been received. For thisreason, a word line address information code SIN is in a non-specifiedstate. The signals AROW <0> to AROW <x> are set to level “L”. The signalRDEC is also set to level “L”.

[Time t91]

After reception of the command CMDa, the flash memory 1 according to thepresent embodiment successively receives the addresses ADD1, ADD2, andADD3.

For example, at the timing of the address ADD3 of the third cycle, theaddress of the selected word line WL-S is determined. For this reason,the word line address information code SIN is set to the valuecorresponding to the word line address.

In accordance with the word line address information code, for example,the voltage VCGRV is applied to the interconnect CGN corresponding tothe selected word line. The non-selection voltage VREAD is applied tointerconnects CGN corresponding to the non-selected word lines. Forexample, a voltage VGBST may be applied to one of the interconnects CGN.

[Time t92]

After time t91, the flash memory 1 according to the present embodimentsequentially receives the addresses ADD4, ADD5, and ADD6. The sequencer124 decodes the received addresses ADD4, ADD5, and ADD6.

In this manner, at time t92, the signal level of each of the decodesignals AROW is changed from “L” level to “H” level, in accordance withthe received address.

The signals AROW are supplied to the AND gates A1 and A2 in the rowdecoder of FIG. 17. In this operation, the signal level of the signalRDEC is set to “L” level.

For this reason, the output signals of the AND gates A1 and A2 are at“L” level, even when all the signals AROW have a signal level of “H”.

[Time t93]

At time t93, the sequencer 124 changes the signal level of the signalRDEC from “L” level to “H” level.

The signal RDEC of “H” level is supplied to the AND gates A1 and A2.When all the signals AROW and RDEC supplied to the AND gates A1 and A2have “H” level, the AND gates A1 and A2 output signals of “H” level.

In this manner, the signal level (potential) of the signal BLKSELincreases to the voltage value VRD higher than the ground voltage Vss.

In addition, when the AND gate A2 outputs a signal of “H” level, thepotential (signal level of the inverter IV) of the node ND1 is changedfrom “H” level to “L” level. In this manner, the transistor TRc is setto the on state.

[Time t94]

After reception of the command CNDb, at time t94, the sequencer 124changes the signal level of the signal VRDEC-CNT from “L” level to “H”level. The signal VRDEC-CNT of level “H” is supplied to the drivercircuit 126. After reception (transmission9 of the command CNDb, thetoggle of the signal /WE is stopped.

In response to the signal VRDEC-CNT of “H” level, the driver 702 of thedriver circuit 126 outputs the voltage value VGBST. The voltage value ofthe voltage VRDEC increases from the voltage value VRD to the voltagevalue VGBST. The voltage value of the node ND4 is transferred to thenode ND3 through the transistor TRc and TRd in the non state.

For this reason, the signal level of the signal BLKSEL increases fromthe voltage value VRD to the voltage value VGBST. In this manner, thevoltage value VGBST higher than the voltage value VRD is applied to thegates of the transfer transistors TG.

In the selected block, the voltage of the voltage value VGBST is appliedto the gates of the transfer transistors TG. In this manner, thetransfer transistors TG are set to the on state.

The read voltage VCGRV and the non-selection voltage VREAD are appliedto the interconnects CGI and the word lines WL corresponding to the wordline address. The read voltage VCGRV is applied to the interconnect CGIand the word line WL corresponding to the selected word line. Thenon-selection voltage VREAD is applied to the interconnects CGI and theword lines WL corresponding to the non-selected word lines WL. Thevoltage VGBST is applied to the predetermined interconnect CGI and theword line WL.

In the present embodiment, when application of the voltagescorresponding to the interconnects CGI and the word lines WL is started,the signal level of the ready/busy signal is set to level “H”. In thisoperation, the flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment is inthe ready state.

[Time t95]

At time t95, the sequencer 124 changes the signal level of theready/busy signal from “H” level to “L” level. Thereafter, inside theflash memory 1, data is read from the selected address in the selectedblock.

Thereafter, the sequencer 124 stops the charge pumps. The potentials ofthe interconnects CGN, CGI, WL, and BL of the flash memory 1 are set tothe ground voltage Vss.

The data is transferred from the flash memory 1 to the controller 8. Thesequencer 124 changes the signal level of the ready/busy signal /RB from“L” level to “H” level.

As described above, the read operation of the flash memory according tothe present embodiment is completed.

(c) Conclusion

The memory device (such as a NAND flash memory) according to the presentembodiment controls a signal to activate the selected block using adecode signal of the address and the control signal of the row decoder.

With this structure, in the present embodiment, the selected block isactivated in a self-aligned manner with respect to the timing ofdetermining the address.

In the present embodiment, the selected block is activated in the period(period in which the level of the ready/busy signal is level “H”) inwhich the memory device is in the ready state.

As a result, the memory device according to the present embodimentenables increase in speed of the operation.

As described above, the memory device according to the presentembodiment improves the property.

(3) Third Embodiment

The following is an explanation of a memory device and a method forcontrolling the same according to the third embodiment with reference toFIG. 19 to FIG. 21.

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of aflash memory 1 according to the present embodiment.

The flash memory 1 according to the present embodiment includes a signalAST as a control signal inside the flash memory.

A sequencer 124 outputs a signal AST to a driver circuit 126. The signalAST is a signal to activate the driver circuit 126. For example, thesignal level of the signal AST is controlled in synchronization with thetiming of decoding the word address information code SIN.

FIG. 20 is a timing chart for explaining an operation example of theNAND flash memory according to the present embodiment.

As described above, in the period in which the level of the ready/busysignal is “H” level, the flash memory 1 according to the presentembodiment generates, with the voltage generation circuit 125, voltagesused for the operation to be performed, in parallel with decoding of thecommand/address.

The sequencer 124 changes the signal level of the signal AST from “L”level to “H” level, in the period (before setting of the code SIN) ofdecoding the word line address information.

In response to the signal AST of level “H”, the driver circuit 126 isactivated. At the timing at which the signal AST is set from “L” levelto “H” level, the driver circuit 126 transfers a voltage VX to the wordlines.

In this manner, the potentials of the word lines WL increase from theground voltage Vss to the voltage VX.

The sequencer 124 changes the signal level of the signal AST from “H”level to “L” level in synchronization with end of decoding of the codeSIN of the word line address information.

In response to change in potential of the signal AST from “H” level to“L” level, the voltage generation circuit 125 outputs a voltage VREAD.The voltage generation circuit 125 supplies the generated voltage VREADto the word lines WL (interconnects CGI). In this manner, the potentialsof the word lines WL increase from the voltage VX to the non-selectionvoltage VREAD.

As described above, the potentials of the word lines WL are set from theground voltage Vss to the predetermined voltage.

After the ready/busy signal is changed from level “H” to level “L”, aread voltage VCGRV is applied to the selected word line WL. In thismanner, data is read from the selected cells.

FIG. 21 is a timing chart illustrating a modification of the operationexample of FIG. 19.

As illustrated in FIG. 21, the potentials of the word lines WL(interconnects CGI) may be set to the non-selection voltage VREAD usingthe timing of change of the signal AST, without change in potentialsover a plurality of steps.

As illustrated in FIG. 21, the driver circuit 126 is activated at thetiming at which the signal level of the signal AST is changed to level“H”.

The driver circuit 126 supplies the voltage VREAD to the word lines WL.In this manner, the potentials of the word lines WL increase from thevoltage Vss to the non-selection voltage VREAD.

In synchronization with end of decoding of the code SIN, the signallevel of the signal AST is changed from level “H” to level “L”. Thepotentials of the word lines WL are maintained at the non-selectionvoltage VREAD.

After the ready/busy signal /RB is changed to level “L”, data is readfrom the selected cells by application of the read voltage VCGRV.

As illustrated in FIG. 19 to FIG. 21, the flash memory according to thepresent embodiment is capable of supplying a certain voltage to the wordlines in the period of decoding the address information of the wordline.

As a result, the flash memory according to the present embodiment iscapable of shortening the period from reception of the command to startof read of data.

Accordingly, the memory device according to the present embodimentimproves the property of the memory.

(4) Others

The embodiments described above illustrate NAND flash memory as anexample of the memory devices of the embodiments. However, the memorydevices of the embodiments may be memory devices other than NAND flashmemory. For example, the memory devices of the embodiments may be NORflash memory, DRAM, SRAM, magnetoresistive memory (such as MRAM and/orSTT-MRAM), resistive random access memory (such as ReRAM), andphase-change memory (such as PCRAM and/or PCM).

In the embodiments described above, the term “connect” is not limited tothe case where a plurality of constituent elements are directlyconnected, but also includes the case where another conductive elementis interposed between the constituent elements.

While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments havebeen presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit thescope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel embodiments described hereinmay be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, variousomissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the embodimentsdescribed herein may be made without departing from the spirit of theinventions. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intendedto cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope andspirit of the inventions.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of controlling a memory device, themethod comprising: receiving an address indicating a region in a memorycell array; and generating one or more voltages supplied to the memorycell array before completion of receiving the address.
 2. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the memory device includes: the memorycell array, a voltage generation circuit generating the one or morevoltages supplied to the memory cell array, an input/output circuitreceiving the address indicating the region in the memory cell array,and a control circuit controlling operations of the memory cell array.3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: supplying thevoltages to a plurality of blocks in the memory cell array when a wordline address of the address is received, and stopping supply of thevoltages to one or more non-selected blocks other than a selected blockcorresponding to a block address of the address in the plurality ofblocks when the block address is received after the word line address,based on the block address.
 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein:rows of the memory cell array are controlled based on a first signal,and a signal level of the first signal is changed from a first level toa second level in a period in which a ready/busy signal indicates aready state.
 5. The method according to claim 4, wherein: calculationprocessing using the first signal and the address is performed, and asignal level of a second signal selecting one block corresponding to theaddress in the plurality of blocks of the memory cell array iscontrolled, based on a result of the calculation processing.
 6. Themethod according to claim 4, wherein the signal level of the firstsignal is set at the second level after reception of the address.
 7. Themethod according to claim 4, wherein supply of the voltages is startedin response to the second level of the first signal.
 8. The methodaccording to claim 1, further comprising: starting supply of thevoltages to the memory cell array based on a first command receivedbefore the address, and performing an operation to the memory cell arraybased on a second command received between the first command and theaddress.
 9. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:supplying the voltages to a plurality of word lines of the memory cellarray during reception of the address, and stopping, after reception ofa word line address in the address, supply of a first voltage of thevoltages to a selected word line corresponding to the word line addressand continuing supply of the voltages to one or more non-selected wordlines other than the selected word line.
 10. The method according toclaim 1, wherein: a current flows in an interconnect connected to thememory cell array, the current has a first current value in a firstperiod of reception of the address, the current has a second currentvalue in a second period in which the voltages are supplied to thememory cell array, and the first current value is higher than the secondcurrent value.
 11. The method according to claim 10, wherein: thecurrent has a third current value in a third period in which aready/busy signal indicates a busy state, and the third current value isequal to or less than the second current value.
 12. The method accordingto claim 1, further comprising: measuring a temperature of a chipincluding the memory cell array, and setting voltage values of thevoltages based on the temperature measured before reception of theaddress.
 13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising:acquiring a first temperature in a period in which an operation of afirst command corresponding to the address is executed; and executing anoperation of a second command supplied after the operation of the firstcommand using the voltage values of the voltages set based on the firsttemperature.
 14. The method according to claim 12, wherein thetemperature is periodically measured in a first period in which aready/busy signal indicates a ready state and a second period in which aready/busy signal indicates a busy state.
 15. The method according toclaim 1, further comprising: transferring the voltages to the memorycell array based on a third signal, the third signal being activatedduring reception of the address.
 16. The method according to claim 15,wherein: a second voltage of the voltages is transferred to the memorycell array in a period in which a signal level of the third signal is afirst level, the second voltage having a first voltage value, a thirdvoltage of the voltages is transferred to the memory cell array inresponse to a timing in which the signal level of the third signalchanges from the first level to a second level, the third voltage havinga second voltage value higher than the first voltage value, and a fourthvoltage of the voltages is transferred to the memory cell array inresponse to a timing in which the signal level of the third signalchanges from the second level to the first level, the fourth voltagehaving a third voltage value being equal to or higher than the secondvoltage value.
 17. The method according to claim 1, wherein supply ofthe voltages to the memory cell array is speculatively started beforecompletion of decoding of the address.
 18. The method according to claim1, wherein supply of the voltages to the memory cell array is started ata timing self-aligned to completion of decoding of the address.
 19. Themethod according to claim 1, wherein the memory cell array includes amemory cell including a charge storage layer.
 20. The method accordingto claim 1, wherein the memory device is a random access memory.